Hulu has become a central hub for premium television, offering a mix of critically acclaimed originals, coveted current-season cable shows, and a deep back catalog of classic series. With so many options, knowing what are the best shows on Hulu right now is the fastest way to transform a vague evening into a satisfying viewing experience. This guide cuts through the noise to highlight the essential series defining the service today.
Current Must-Watch Originals
The heart of Hulu’s modern appeal lies in its bold original programming, which often tackles complex themes with sharp wit and cinematic quality. These flagship shows represent the peak of what the platform offers and consistently generate significant buzz.
Shōgun
A monumental achievement in television, Shōgun is a lavish, politically intricate epic that sets a new standard for historical drama on streaming. The series follows an English sailor thrust into a deadly power struggle in 17th-century Japan, featuring breathtaking cinematography, profound cultural depth, and career-best performances. It is less a weekly show and more an immersive cinematic event that demands and rewards full attention.
The Handmaid’s Tale
Now in its later seasons, The Handmaid’s Tale continues to be a vital and harrowing force on Hulu. While the show has evolved, it remains a potent, visually striking exploration of authoritarianism, patriarchy, and female resilience. The latest chapters delve deeper into the consequences of the theocracy’s collapse, offering a grim but compelling conclusion to the saga for many fans.
Genre Favorites and Fan Favorites
Beyond its prestige dramas, Hulu maintains a strong portfolio of genre series that cater to specific tastes, from spine-tingling horror to clever, fast-paced comedies.
Only Murders in the Building
Elevating the celebrity-mystery format, Only Murders in the Building is a sophisticated and deeply charming comedy. Led by an effortless trio of Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez, each season artfully mimics a different thriller genre. The show’s intelligence, warmth, and fantastic soundtrack have made it one of the most beloved series on the platform.
Black Cake
Based on the bestselling novel, Black Cake is a vibrant, multigenerational saga centered on a young woman who inherits a Caribbean rum distillery and a family secret. The series is a lush, emotional exploration of identity, legacy, and reconciliation, featuring a standout performance from newcomer Charmaine Bingwa. It is a feel-good show with substantial dramatic weight.
Late-Night Comedy and Edge
For viewers seeking something quicker, sharper, and more topical, Hulu offers a selection of comedies that capture the current cultural moment with precision.
How I Met Your Father
A reimagining of the classic sitcom formula, How I Met Your Father follows a young woman navigating life and love in New York City, with a framing device that adds a meta layer to the storytelling. While its reception has been mixed, it remains a breezy, intermittently funny addition to the Hulu lineup, particularly for fans of the original series’ optimistic tone.
Show | Genre | Vibe
Shōgun | Historical Drama | Epic, intense, cinematic
The Handmaid’s Tale | Dystopian Thriller | Gritty, provocative, suspenseful
